Evaluation of the performance of a simulation model for open algae ponds and investigation of the operating behavior of open algae ponds over a one-year period for different locations

The performance of open algae ponds in Eilat (Israel) and Las Cruces (USA) cultivating the algae from the experiment for a one-year operating period is investigated. The ponds are fed with diluted CO2 gas, which is consumed by the algae and controls the pH-value. The performance is judged on the basis of yearly yield, carbon fixation efficiency and the ratio the gas dosing is active. The harvest rate is identified as an important operating parameter, which has to be adjusted to the specific conditions of the pond. The use of different harvest rates in the summer and winter period is beneficial for the pond in Eilat and leads to a yearly yield up to 9.2 g/(m2 day), which is close to the maximum achievable yield, and a carbon fixation efficiency of 78.6%. The ratio the gas dosing is actually active can be increased to 2/3 to minimize the necessary size of the dosing equipment.